SEPANG, Aug 18 — Heavy rains following tropical stress, especially on August 12 and August 13, were a major challenge for the High Altitude Rescue Simulation Expedition team in Mardi Himal, Nepal, during their recent climbing mission.
Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) deputy director-general (management) Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, who led the expedition’s pioneer team, said, however, the challenges faced after the rain such as slippery trails and fallen trees, did not discourage them.
“The objective of the expedition was to study the needs, formulate an action plan and delve deep into the guidelines for high altitude rescue operations,” he told Bernama when met on his arrival at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) today.
JBPM director-general Datuk Abdul Wahab Mat Yasin welcomed the team, which comprised 50 participants from various agencies and media, including the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama).
On August 4, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah flagged off participants of the High Altitude Rescue Simulation @ Mardi Himal Expedition at Dataran Majlis Bandaraya Kuantan.
Nor Hisham said the participants were able to identify comprehensive management methods for the tourism industry, especially when climbing under the Annapurna Conservation Area Project, which allowed for more integrated and systematic management.
Following the 10-day expedition, which began on August 7, improvements could be made to mountain rangers’ course modules based on the methods implemented by mountain rangers in Nepal, such as high-altitude medicine and climbing strategies.
“The provision of infrastructure for climbing routes can also be studied so that climbing activities can be developed, especially the structural elements that enable those who are new to climbing to further their interest,” he said.
The expedition programme was carried out following the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s call to establish a high-altitude rescue team.
— Bernama
